Distinguishing Between Incense Makers and Users
In the rich history of Chinese incense culture, there exists a clear distinction between those who crafted incense and those who used it. This journey through the history of incense reveals two main categories: artisan incense and literary incense.
Artisan Incense: With the proliferation of workshops, incense became widely used in folk rituals. However, the materials used were often of lesser quality. During the Ming Dynasty, stick incense was perfected, and by the Qing Dynasty, Fujian became the leading producer, exporting large quantities to Nanyang for sacrificial rituals.
Literary Incense: Unlike the common incense used for rituals, literary incense, often mentioned in texts like "Xiang Cheng" (The Classic of Incense), was made from precious materials. It was crafted by and for scholars and literati, serving as an integral part of their refined lifestyle.
Historical Evolution
The practice of incense making and usage has evolved significantly through various Chinese dynasties:
- Shang and Zhou Dynasties: Incense began as a rudimentary practice.
- Song Dynasty: This period marked the pinnacle of incense as an art form. The method of "separating fire and incense" became popular, typically burning incense between 100 and 120 degrees Celsius to release its aroma gently.
- Ming Dynasty: The craft of incense making was further refined.
- Late Ming and Early Qing Dynasties: Unfortunately, the tradition saw a decline and eventual cessation.
Incense Culture and Cultural Practices
In China, incense culture is known as "Xiangshi" (香事), an integral part of cultural heritage. This contrasts with the Japanese practice of "Koudou" (香道), which translates to "The Way of Incense." In Chinese incense culture, humans are the masters of incense, emphasizing that humans are above incense, and incense is used for human purposes. In Japan, "Koudou" and other practices such as "Kadou" (The Way of Flowers), "Chadou" (The Way of Tea), and "Kendou" (The Way of the Sword) signify a philosophical journey rather than just a practice.
The Art of Incense Making
The process of creating high-quality incense involves several meticulous steps:
- Brewing and Processing: Selecting and preparing raw materials.
- Blending and Harmonizing: Combining various ingredients to create a balanced aroma.
- Aging: Allowing the blended materials to mature, developing a richer fragrance.
Conclusion
The journey of incense culture in China is a fascinating one, marked by a blend of artistic expression and cultural significance. From its humble beginnings in the Shang and Zhou dynasties, through its artistic peak in the Song Dynasty, and its refinement in the Ming Dynasty, incense has played a vital role in Chinese ritualistic and scholarly life. Although the practice faced a decline during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, the legacy of both artisan and literary incense continues to be a testament to China's rich cultural heritage. Chinese incense culture not only showcases the diversity and complexity of incense but also highlights the human mastery over it, making it an indispensable part of life.
